Tarik Cohen and Jordan Howard represent two distinct paths to success in the NFL, each defined by speed, power, and relentless production at the running back position.
While both players have earned Pro Bowl honors, their backgrounds, skill sets, and career trajectories invite constant comparison among fans, analysts, and fantasy managers.
| Player | Position | Key Strength | Career Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarik Cohen | Running Back | Elite speed and shiftiness | 3× Pro Bowl (2018, 2019, 2020), 2019 NFC Offensive Player of the Year |
| Jordan Howard | Running Back | Powerful inside running | 2× Pro Bowl (2016, 2017), 2016 NFC Offensive Player of the Year |
| College | Running Back | Path to the NFL | Cohen: Indiana, Howard: UAB |
| Draft Year | Round | Team selected | Cohen: 2017, Rd 4, 128th overall (Bears); Howard: 2016, Rd 3, 88th overall (Bears) |
Tarik Cohen Explosive Playmaking Ability
Tarik Cohen built his reputation on electrifying runs, misdirection, and sideline-to-sideline explosiveness that changed how defenses approached the Bears backfield.
His rare combination of vision, acceleration, and balance allowed him to turn broken plays into gains and keep drives alive even when the line struggled.
Throughout his peak years, Cohen consistently ranked among league leaders in yards after contact and long run attempts, earning him a reputation as a game-changer in critical moments.
Jordan Howard Power Running and Durability
Jordan Howard brought a bruising approach to the backfield, thriving in inside zones and delivering punishing runs that wore down defenses over a game.
His ability to fight for extra yards after contact and maintain balance in traffic provided the Bears with a steady ground game that complemented their diverse offensive scheme.
Howard demonstrated notable durability during his peak seasons, missing limited action and managing workloads to stay on the field for key contests.
Comparative Skill Evaluation
Evaluating Tarik Cohen and Jordan Howard requires looking at how each player fits within an offense, leverages different physical tools, and responds to evolving defensive tactics.
While Cohen generated higher peak yardage numbers, Howard provided consistent, high-efficiency production that supported sustained red-zone success and goal-line execution.
| Category | Tarik Cohen | Jordan Howard | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Outside runner, pass catcher | Inside runner, power back | Reflects scheme fit and physical profile |
| Peak Season Yards | 1,381 (2019) | 1,281 (2016) | Single-season performance comparison |
| Pro Bowl Selections | 3 (2018–2020) | 2 (2016, 2017) | Honors at position |
| Injury Trends | Moderate ankle concerns | More durable, limited major issues | Availability impact on production |
Playing Style and Scheme Fit
Cohen thrives in spread formations that utilize motion, jet sweeps, and perimeter runs, where his vision and burst can exploit defensive gaps created by aggressive front schemes.
Howard excels in condensed inside zone concepts, benefiting from offensive line setups that create natural running lanes and allow him to deliver hits while sustaining forward momentum.
Teams considering how to utilize these backs must weigh play-action potential, third-down utility, and red-zone efficiency against roster construction and overall offensive philosophy.
Injury History and Availability
Both players have faced injury challenges, but the nature and frequency of setbacks have differed, influencing how teams manage their roles in practice and during games.
Cohen dealt with ankle issues that occasionally limited practice reps, while Howard navigated knee and foot concerns that raised questions about long-term durability during peak years.
Monitoring workload management and recovery protocols remains essential for projecting future performance and fantasy relevance.
Key Takeaways for Evaluating NFL Running Backs
- Compare peak performance metrics and accolades to assess ceiling and floor
- Analyze how offensive scheme and play-calling trends highlight each back's strengths
- Consider durability trends and injury management when projecting workload
- Factor in positional versatility, red-zone value, and third-down utility
FAQ
Reader questions
Who had more productive seasons at running back, Tarik Cohen or Jordan Howard?
Tarik Cohen had more productive seasons in terms of peak performance, highlighted by his 2019 NFC Offensive Player of the Year campaign and three consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2018 to 2020.
How did scheme fit influence the comparison between Tarik Cohen and Jordan Howard?
Cohen performed best in outside-focused, spread concepts that leveraged his speed and shiftiness, while Howard thrived in inside zone schemes that maximized his power and balance in traffic.
Which back offered better durability and workload consistency, Tarik Cohen or Jordan Howard?
Jordan Howard generally provided greater durability and steadier workload consistency, missing fewer games during his peak seasons and maintaining reliable production across full seasons.
How do Tarik Cohen and Jordan Howard compare in fantasy football value?
Cohen delivers higher ceiling yardage and volatility, while Howard offers more consistency and touchdown reliability, making their fantasy value dependent on league scoring settings and roster needs.